Historical Note:
In 1870 a small group of men led by Alonzo E. Horton (1813-1909) met and formed a group that would eventually become the San Diego Chamber of Commerce. When the group originated, its primary focus was the development of San Diego with particular emphasis on the arrival of railroads to the vicinity. In the following years the Chamber also focused its attention on gaining access to drinking water and encouraging the development of military bases. By 1909 the Chamber had helped to create Balboa Park and was the driving force behind the Panama California Exposition held in 1915-16. Over the years the Chamber of Commerce has become more active in the development of San Diego.
In 1952 the Chamber expanded with the development of its Economic Research Bureau (ERB). The purpose behind its development was to analyze the research and research economic trends of the city and county of San Diego. The information collected by the ERB is open to members of the community as well as those in government offices. The ERB publishes a monthly newsletter titled "Economic Bulletin," which contains the most recent economic data related to the San Diego regin.
From the guide to the Records of the Economic Research Bureau, 1931-2000, (Special Collections & University Archives)
